First Nations culture, art and storytelling at forefront of Keep the Fire Burning exhibition

Rhiannon Clarke Published October 1, 2024 at 2.30pm (AWST)

arts

A weaving workshop led by Virginia Keft will be held as part of the Keep the Fire Burning exhibition which opens this month. (Image: supplied)

North Sydney Council is hosting Keep the Fire Burning, a First Nations art exhibition in Tunnel One of the Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability from 12 October to 3 November.

Based on the 2024 NAIDOC theme, the exhibition on Cammeraygal Country explores the powerful role fire plays in First Nations culture, art, and storytelling.

Curated by Noongar artist Jodie Dowd, it brings together eight First Nations artists who use fire as a creative force, breathing life into ancient and modern stories.

The artworks span a range of mediums—from moving images and soundscapes to eco-dyed silks, weavings, and glass sculptures. Fire also shapes possum skin cloaks, highlighting its significance in cleansing, protection, and renewal.

Dr Virginia Keft, Matjam (Flying Fox) Coming Home After the Fire, 2024 (Image: supplied)

Artists featured in the exhibition include Wandi Wandian artist Amethyst Downing-McLeod, Gamilaroi artist Emma Hicks, Muruwari artist Virginia Keft, Minyungbal and South Seas Islander artist Courtney Marsh-Curry.

Their works reflect personal connections to fire and its role in First Nations traditions.

A collaborative piece created by community members during a weaving workshop led by Virginia Keft will also be part of the exhibition.

Open from 12 October to 3 November, the exhibition welcomes the public Thursday through Sunday from 10am to 3:30pm. The opening night event will include catering from Bush to Bowl, with no registration required.

Dr Virginia Keft, mirrinj (star). (Image: supplied)

On 26 October, there will be free public programs, including guided tours by Wiradjuri artist Nathan Mudyi Sentence held from 10am to 1pm with bookings via Humantix).

Alternatively, drop in between 11am and 1pm for a weaving circle with curator Jodie Dowd, who will teach bracelet weaving and share stories behind the exhibition, with no registration required.

For children aged 5+, a free clay building workshop will be held on 11 October with Gamilaroi artist Dr Emma Hicks, offering an early preview of the exhibition. Sessions run from 1pm to 4pm with bookings via Humantix.

Keep the Fire Burning is a chance for the community to connect with the cultural significance of fire in First Nations art, showing how it continues to inspire transformation, healing, and connection with the land.